Man charged in deputy's death found competent for trial

CLARKSTON (AP) — A man charged with murder after authorities say he ran over a sheriff’s deputy has been found competent for trial.

A judge made the ruling this week in the case of Christopher Berak, 22, of Macomb County, who is charged with first-degree homicide and murder of a peace officer.

Berak’s lawyer had requested the evaluation.

Authorities say Oakland County Deputy Eric Overall was outside his squad car early Nov. 23 preparing to deploy “stop sticks” designed to deflate vehicles’ tires at a Brandon Township intersection when he was hit by Berak’s vehicle. It rolled over and Berak was arrested.

Earlier, Berak told officers at the Lapeer County jail he was “God” and came to break out one of his “sons.”